Not heading home this Christmas? You’re not alone. Lots of students stay in Belfast over the winter break - especially international students who have recently settled in. The good news is: staying doesn’t have to mean feeling stuck or lonely.

The pace slows down, the campus gets quieter, and the city takes on a softer, festive atmosphere that’s actually perfect for exploring at your own pace.

Here are some simple, budget-friendly ideas to make the break feel enjoyable, whether you’re hanging out with friends or spending time on your own.

Planning Ahead

Shops and buses run on reduced hours around Christmas Day and Boxing Day, so it’s worth planning ahead. But once that’s sorted, the break can be a chance to rest, explore, and build your own small traditions - even if you’re staying right here in student accommodation.

Festive Things Worth Checking Out

Belfast Christmas Market

City Hall turns into a festive hub with food stalls, lights and music. It’s fun to browse, grab a warm drink and enjoy the atmosphere. Weekday afternoons are the best if you prefer it less busy.

Christmas lights around the city

Donegall Square, Royal Avenue and Victoria Square all look great in the evenings. It’s an easy excuse to get outside and take photos, and it makes the city feel surprisingly cosy.

Free indoor escapes

Ulster Museum is free, warm, and ideal for a relaxed hour away from screens. Galleries across the city also have small exhibitions worth dropping into on a rainy day.

Low-Key Ways to Spend Time With Friends

A Shared Dinner Night in your accommodation

Everyone brings one dish or snack, nothing fancy. Add some music, borrow a board game or play something on a console, and suddenly you have a very wholesome evening for almost no cost.

Games, movies, easy hangouts

A simple movie night, card game or café trip is often all you need. December is a great time to keep things relaxed and still stay connected.

Explore Without Spending Much

Café afternoons

Bring a book or laptop, order something warm and enjoy a change of scenery. Botanic Avenue, Stranmillis and the Cathedral Quarter all have great student-friendly spots.

Walks that don’t require planning

Botanic Gardens, the Palm House, and the Lagan Towpath from Stranmillis are perfect for a quick walk when you want some fresh air. Even 20 minutes outside makes winter feel lighter.

Community Events & Christmas Meals

Some local community groups and churches host open Christmas meals or social events during the break. You don’t need to be religious to go, and they’re welcoming spaces to meet new people and enjoy a good meal. Going with a friend can make it even easier.

Capture Your Winter - Photo Competition

If you’re taking photos anyway, why not enter the 'A picturesque winter in Belfast' photo competition?

Lights, cafés, cosy corners, snowy mornings, study spots - anything that captures what your Belfast break looks like.

A few favourite entries will win small prizes and be featured on @QUBStudents.

👉 Submit your entries here by Sunday 4 January 2026. 

Final Thoughts

Spending the break in Belfast can actually be a really nice reset. You don’t need to fill every day with plans - even one café visit, one walk, or one small meet-up with friends can make the winter feel brighter.

Take things at your own pace, explore when you feel like it, and enjoy discovering a quieter, cosy version of the city.